PROTECTING THE HONOUR OF THE UNIFORM : ADDRESSING ATM IMPERSONATION AND PUBLIC DECEPTION

Could you spot the real one?

Acknowledgement of Appreciation : I wish to extend sincere appreciation to the former Information Officers of the Malaysian Armed Forces (J9 BHEA (PAD), distinguished members of the ex–Armed Forces fraternity, and officers from the former Intelligence Corps and other relevant enforcement agencies for their invaluable insights, factual verification, and professional guidance. Their continued commitment to upholding the honour and integrity of the nation’s defence institutions is both acknowledged and deeply appreciated.

As scams involving the impersonation of Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) personnel continue to escalate, questions arise about how public institutions can better verify identity and protect citizens. Beyond financial losses, these acts threaten the honour and credibility of genuine servicemen and veterans.

In the United States, the act of impersonating a member of the military is known as “stolen valour.” It is taken very seriously with some ex-Marines and law enforcement officers actively identifying and reporting offenders who falsely claim military service or wear uniforms they did not earn. 

In Malaysia, similar concerns are growing as individuals attempt to pass off as members of the Angkatan Tentera Malaysia (ATM), often for personal gain, social prestige, or to deceive the public. The need to recognize the difference between a real soldier and a fake one has therefore become increasingly important, not only to protect national image but also to uphold the dignity of those who have truly served.

The official and legal position in Malaysia

a. Only Authorized Personnel May Wear Armed Forces Uniforms

Under the Armed Forces Act 1972 (Act 77) and related regulations, wearing any uniform, insignia, or decoration of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) without lawful authority is prohibited.

This includes ministers, VIPs, or civilians unless they are:

• Commissioned or honorary officers, officially gazetted by His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces); or

• Granted permission in writing by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) for a specific ceremonial or official purpose.

b. When Non-Military VIPs May Wear Uniforms (Legally)

There are limited exceptions:

• Honorary Ranks: Some individuals (including ministers, royalty, or distinguished civilians) may be granted honorary military ranks by royal consent and through MINDEF’s recommendation, 
  
  
• Ceremonial or Joint Exercises: Civilian officials may wear designated attire (not actual service uniforms) during official joint exercises or remembrance events but these are usually clearly distinguished from operational uniforms.

c. Misuse or Impersonation

If a person wears a military uniform to gain influence, respect, or deceive others, it is an offence under:

• Section 140, Armed Forces Act 1972 – unlawful use of uniform or military emblems,

• Penal Code (Section 170) - impersonating a public servant or member of the armed forces,

Punishments may include fines and imprisonment.

d. Suppliers

Shops that sell military uniforms are required to obtain a special license from MINDEF and are strictly prohibited from selling such items to individuals without proper identification or official authorization or risk losing their licenses and blacklisted . Regular clothing retailers (online or offline), on the other hand, must ensure that their products do not replicate or closely resemble official military attire. Even footwear must not match the standard issue used by the armed forces.

8. ACTION/VERIFICATION

 If you want to verify someone’s veteran claim

• Ask for their JHEV Veteran Card (Kad Veteran ATM),

• Check with JHEV portal or hotline : they can confirm if the person is registered,

• Cross-check the unit or regiment name (e.g., 19 RAMD, 5 RRD, 10 PARA) : real veterans know details like location, motto, and camp names.

 9. COMMON FAKE EX-SOLDIER TRICKS

• Claims to be ex-Komando or ex-Pasukan Khas Laut (PASKAL) : the most impersonated units,
• Uses veteran status to sell fake military gear or to gain trust in scam,
• Claims to have “high-level contacts” in MINDEF or the Palace,
• Tries to use “military language” to intimidate or sound authoritative.

One of the most common tactics used by fake ex-soldiers is to claim they suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), often to gain sympathy, social status, or financial assistance. Some may even show edited photos or staged videos of themselves in military settings to appear convincing.

If such claims raise suspicion, the matter should be reported to the authorities such as the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) or the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF)  for proper verification. With a court order, and in compliance with medical and confidentiality laws, the relevant agencies may verify the individual’s service and medical records through official army hospitals or other designated institutions.

This ensures that genuine veterans receive the respect and support they truly deserve, while impostors are held accountable for their deception.

10. REAL VETERANS

They rarely need to prove their service. You’ll sense it from their: (some things cannot be faked, it comes naturally with veterans)

• Discipline,
• Humility,
• Patriotism without boasting,
• Brotherhood with other ex-servicemen

11. CONCLUSION

The growing trend of impersonation involving members of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) is not merely a criminal act of deception, but an affront to the honour, discipline, and sacrifice of those who have truly served the nation.

In contrast, fake soldiers often imitate what they see in movies or television dramas, mistaking fiction for reality. or they may be influenced by relatives or friends who serve in the armed forces, leading them to mimic what they only partially understand.

But the truth is - the real deal is nothing like what’s shown on screen or superficial understanding of seeing relatives or friends. Military life is built on honour, hardship, and unwavering commitment, not theatrics or borrowed glory.

Public awareness, coupled with institutional vigilance, remains our best defence against such exploitation. It is therefore essential that every claim of military affiliation be verified through proper channels, and that the public continue to respect genuine servicemen and veterans who uphold the dignity of the uniform. In protecting the integrity of the ATM, we also safeguard the trust, pride, and unity that form the foundation of our national security.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY 16/10/2025

 "Typical" people often ask why I’m on every social media platform, is it for publicity, or because I’m lonely, or something else? First, it’s none of their business. 2nd - I’m under no legal or moral obligation wasting my time to explain myself.

Publicity? I’ve already got plenty. Lonely? I don't think so when I’m being surrounded by genuine, amazing friends, offline and online (yes, they are real organic people online). Inaccurate psychological assessment...Go try on someone else 😂

I honestly couldn’t care less whether people “like” my posts or not. I’m here to share knowledge and engage with others - not to treat anyone as mere data, AI or statistics.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

With the recent rise in heinous crimes involving teenagers and young people, authorities have announced plans to strengthen security in schools.

While this is a necessary move, I strongly believe that a comprehensive risk assessment should be conducted first. In the past, even with additional security measures, the lack of proper monitoring and enforcement has made these efforts less effective.

It’s time we redefine school security, not just by adding more guards, but by training and qualifying them properly. Screening should be stricter, with preference given to trained professionals, such as former army or police personnel, who understand discipline, vigilance, and crisis response.

Our schools should be safe havens for learning, not places where parents worry every morning. Prevention starts with proactive preparedness not "firefighting"

ON OUR 36TH ANNIVERSARY

 

36 years of love, laughter, and lessons, a journey written not in time, but in heartbeats. Every wrinkle tells a story, every smile a memory. Alhamdulillah, for love that grows deeper with every sunrise. 💕

WANT TO INVEST IN BURSA? HUMBLE GUIDE BY NIK ZAFRI

Disclaimer : I am not a share expert and I gave up my license a long time ago. What I’m sharing here is purely based on my personal experience and observation. It may not suit everyone’s risk appetite or investment goals, so please treat this only as an unqualified personal guide, not professional financial advice. Always do your own research or consult a licensed investment adviser before making decisions.

Before investing a single sen, get familiar with how the stock market works.

Bursa Malaysia is the main stock exchange in Malaysia. It’s where public companies list their shares, and investors buy/sell them.

1) When you buy share

It means that you own a small part of that company. You can profit in two ways:

• Capital gain : buying low and selling high,
• Dividends : regular payments from the company’s profits (many Malaysian companies are good dividend payers).

2) Open a CDS and Trading Account

a) To invest, you must have:

• Central Depository System (CDS) Account (managed by Bursa Malaysia),
• Trading Account (with a stockbroker or bank)

b) How to open:

Choose a broker (examples: Maybank , CIMB , RHB, Hong Leong Bank Berhad , or online platforms like Rakuten Trade  or M+ Online),

• Submit your IC and supporting documents,
• Fund your trading account (some start as low as RM100)

Rakuten Trade and MIDF Invest are good for beginners - based on my own experience, they’re user-friendly and low-cost.

3) Learn the Different Types of Stocks

Generally, Malaysian stocks can be grouped into:

• Blue Chips: Big, stable companies (e.g. Maybank, PETRONAS Chemicals Group Berhad (PCG), Tenaga Nasional Berhad ) – lower risk, steady dividends.
• Growth Stocks: Smaller or mid-sized companies with potential to grow fast (e.g. tech, healthcare) – higher risk, higher reward.
• Dividend Stocks: Companies that consistently pay dividends (e.g. REITs, utilities, telcos).
• Speculative/Penny Stocks: Cheap, volatile, high risk - avoid until you have experience.

4) Study Before You Buy

Wise investors look at both fundamental and technical factors.

4.1 Fundamental analysis : Earnings per share (EPS), Price-to-earnings ratio (P/E), Dividend yield, company management and business model, Industry trends

4.2 Technical analysis: Price charts (candlesticks), support and resistance, volume trends.

For beginners, focus more on fundamentals first! Learn to value a business, not just its share price.

5) Build a Small, Safe Portfolio

Start small : say RM500–RM1,000 per month.

This way, you’re not putting all your eggs in one basket.

6) Be Patient and Think Long-Term

Stock investing is not gambling.

The “wise choice” is:

• Investing in strong companies with good track records.
• Holding long enough for compounding to work.
• Reinvesting dividends.

Avoiding panic selling when the market dips.

You may not get rich overnight, but in 5–10 years, consistent and disciplined investing can grow your wealth significantly.

7.0 Keep Learning

Here are some tips and recommended resources:

• Bursa Academy (free online learning by Bursa Malaysia),
• InvestSmart by SC Malaysia

Some of the books that I've read:

• The Intelligent Investor (Benjamin Graham)
• One Up on Wall Street (Peter Lynch)

8.0 “Wise” Start

Let’s say you invest RM1,000 in Maybank at RM8.80 per share.

Annual dividend yield ≈ 6% → RM60 a year. If price rises to RM9.50, you gain ~8% in capital. Total gain ≈ 14% = RM140 (Yes, it's not big, but it's steady and definitely low risk).

Do that every month, and in 5 years you’ll have built a portfolio worth many thousands even more with reinvested dividends.

9.0 SIMULATED PORTFOLIO

Here's an example of simulated portfolio with low risk and expected annual return, based on your monthly budget and risk appetite

Let's assume RM1,000/month, moderate risk, and short-term (1–2 years).

That means your goal is to make steady gains without too much exposure to volatility - something practical and realistic for Bursa Malaysia .

Here’s a smart short-term portfolio simulation designed around those parameters.

9.1 Bursa Malaysia Stock Investment Plan (Moderate, Short-Term)

Monthly Investment = RM1,000/month. Time Frame = 12–24 months

a) Portfolio Allocation

b) Expected Performance (Estimates for 1–2 Years)

This may sound modest, but for short-term investing, it’s realistic and protects your capital while letting you learn market behaviour.

10.0 Strategy and Tips

• Use Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA):

Invest RM1,000 every month regardless of price. This smooths out volatility.

• Monitor Quarterly Results:

Keep an eye on companies’ QRs (Quarterly Reports) - if profits drop for 2 straight quarters, reconsider holding.

• Set a Profit Target:

Aim to sell if a stock rises 10–15% within 6–12 months. Don’t get greedy - short-term means locking in profits wisely.

• Reinvest Dividends:

Even short-term, reinvesting dividends increases compounding effect.

• Avoid Chasing Hype:

Stay away from “goreng” or speculative counters unless you can afford the loss. Stick with sound fundamentals.

Let’s say you start with:

RM400 → Maybank (RM8.80/share)

RM250 → IGB REIT (RM1.80/share)

RM250 → Inari (RM3.00/share)

RM100 → kept as cash

After one year:

Maybank rises to RM9.30 (+6%) and pays 6% dividend → 12% total gain

IGB REIT pays 5% dividend, price stable → 5% gain

Inari rises 15% → 15% gain

Average total gain ≈ 10% (RM1,200 → RM1,320)

If reinvested monthly, your annual profit could reach RM800–RM1,000, not huge but safe and smart.

10.0 Your Simulated 12-Month Investment Roadmap

Here’s your 12-month Bursa Malaysia Stock Investment Roadmap - tailored for RM1,000/month, moderate risk, and a short-term horizon (1–2 years). 

(Total target investment: RM12,000)

This plan balances steady growth, dividend income, and learning experience without overexposing you to market risk.

a) Portfolio Mix at Year-End

b) Expected Return (Short-Term Estimate) 

c) Rebalancing and Exit Plan

• Rebalance every 6 months (or when a stock gains/loses >15%)
• Lock in profit when a counter exceeds +10–15%, then reinvest elsewhere.
• Cut loss if a company falls >10% and fundamentals worsen (check quarterly results).
• If market dips sharply but fundamentals remain intact → buy more (average down).

11.0 CONCLUSION

Investing in Bursa Malaysia can be both rewarding and educational when approached with patience, discipline, and a clear strategy. Even with a modest monthly commitment, wise investors can gradually build wealth through sound stock selection, consistent monitoring, and reinvestment of returns. While short-term profits are possible, the real value lies in understanding market behaviour and making informed choices rather than chasing quick gains.

Remember; as stated in the disclaimer ; this guide is not professional financial advice, but a reflection of personal experience. Every investor’s journey is unique, so always do your own research and invest only what you can afford to hold. The key is not to predict the market, but to prepare and participate in it wisely.

PM 101 CRITICAL PATH METHOD - NIK ZAFRI

The Critical Path Method (CPM) is a project scheduling technique used to identify the sequence of activities that determine the shortest possible duration to complete a project.

The Critical Path itself refers to the longest continuous chain of dependent activities from project start to finish.

Each activity on this path has zero float/slack, meaning any delay in these activities will directly delay the entire project.

Thus : The Critical Path is the backbone of the project timeline.

1.0 WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

a. Time Control

It tells you the minimum completion time and helps the team prioritize work. Activities on the critical path must be closely monitored.

b. Resource Allocation

It helps planners allocate labour, equipment, and materials efficiently to critical activities first avoiding idle resources or bottlenecks.

c. Progress Tracking

It allows the project manager to know exactly which delays matter most — not all delays affect the overall completion date.

d. Decision-Making

In case of unforeseen issues (e.g., weather delays, material shortages), managers can quickly decide where to fast-track or crash the schedule to recover lost time.

e. Client and Contractor Communication

The critical path schedule provides a transparent, evidence-based tool for reporting progress, negotiating time extensions, or substantiating delay claims.

2.0. MISTAKES

a. No CPM - Depending Only on Bar Chart (Gantt Chart)

Many contractors rely solely on simple Gantt charts without logic links between activities.

You can’t identify dependencies or determine which tasks truly control the project completion.

This leads to poor coordination, unrealistic timelines, and misleading progress updates.

b. Incorrect Activity Sequencing

If the logic (predecessor-successor relationship) is wrong, the identified critical path will be inaccurate.

e.g. Installing formwork is shown as independent of rebar placement, this breaks the logical flow.

c. Unrealistic Durations

Setting durations without considering actual productivity, site conditions, or resource limits will distort the path.

The CPM might show a “fake” critical path that doesn’t match real-life constraints.

d. Ignoring Resource Constraints

A CPM schedule that ignores the availability of manpower, equipment, or materials gives a misleading view of feasibility.

e. CPM not updated

Failing to regularly update progress (weekly/monthly) means the CPM becomes obsolete. The project team loses sight of the real critical path as conditions change.

f. Too Many or Too Few Activities

Over-detailed CPMs become cumbersome, while oversimplified ones miss critical logic - both make tracking difficult.

g. Not Incorporated into the Master Work Program

Sometimes CPM is prepared separately and not aligned with the master work program or baseline schedule.

This results in inconsistent reporting, claim disputes, and confusion between stakeholders.

3.0 RISKS - WITH POOR CPM OR NO CPM AT ALL

• Inability to forecast completion date accurately.
• Increased risk of cost overruns and claims.
• Miscommunication between client, consultant, and contractor.
• Ineffective monitoring - site teams don’t know what to prioritize.
• Difficulty in granting or defending Extension of Time (EOT).
• Loss of credibility with the client and project financiers.

4.0 BEST PRACTICES

• Use CPM software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project) with correct logic links.
• Base the durations on historical productivity rates and resource availability.
• Update CPM regularly and review float changes.
• Align CPM with the Master Work Program (MWP).
• Conduct periodic schedule reviews with all stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities for fast-tracking or crashing early if delays arise.

5.0 EXAMPLES

Let me walk through a simplified example of how the Critical Path works in a construction sequence.

Project : Building a Simple Two-Storey Structure

How CPM Helps Here

The project manager now knows that Walls & Plastering (G) is a critical activity not Roof (F) or M & E (H). If delays occur in roof work, the project can still finish on time, but wall/plaster delay will push the completion date. Hence, site resources can be prioritized for critical path tasks to prevent overall delay.

Visual CPM Network Diagram

Below is a ready-to-use sample Master Work Program (MWP) for a small building project that includes CPM calculations, plus a revised schedule showing the effect of a delay and a footnote/legend explaining delay types and how to present them in the MWP.

• Baseline activity table (with ES, EF, LS, LF, float) - CPM forward/backward pass shown implicitly in the numbers.
• Baseline Critical Path.
• Revised schedule after a 4-day delay to a critical activity (showing how completion shifts).
• Footnotes - Legend explaining delay types, columns, and how to present delays/claims in the MWP.

Baseline Master Work Program (CPM included)

Assume day counting starts at Day 0 (project start). All arithmetic is shown as totals so you can verify calculations.

a) How these numbers were obtained (summary of forward/backward pass)

Forward pass (ES → EF)

ES of a node = max(EF of all predecessors).

e.g - ES(I) = max(EF(F), EF(G), EF(H)) = max(43, 46, 44) = 46 → EF(I) = ES(I) + 5 = 51.

Backward pass (LF → LS)

LF of a node = min(LS of all successors).

e.g. LF(E) = min(LS of F, G, H) = min(39, 36, 38) = 36 → LS(E) = LF(E) − 6 = 30.

Float = LS − ES (or LF − EF)

• Baseline Project Duration = EF(J) = 53 days.
• Baseline Critical Path (zero float activities):

A → B → C → D → E → G → I → J (total 53 days)

b) Revised work program (after the 4-day delay on G)

New project duration = 57 days. Delay = 4 days (equal to the G delay) because G was critical.

c) Footnote / Legend : showing delays and how to present them in the MWP

Columns used (and how to report)

• ES / EF : Early Start / Early Finish (forward pass).
• LS / LF : Late Start / Late Finish (backward pass).
• Float : LS − ES (slack). If float = 0 → critical.

Actual Start and Actual Finish (in your live MWP, add columns) - record real progress. Compare actual vs baseline.

d) Types of Delay (legend) - short definitions and examples relevant to construction

• Excusable, Non-Compensable Delay : Delay outside contractor’s control for which time extension may be granted but no money (e.g., unusually severe weather). Mark as E-NC.

• Excusable, Compensable Delay : Delay caused by the employer/client (e.g., late variations/instructions, late approvals, late design) - contractor gets EOT and additional cost (E-C).

• Non-Excusable Delay : Contractor’s fault (e.g., poor planning, labour shortage due to contractor’s hiring failure) : contractor liable for EOT denial and possible liquidated damages (NE).

• Concurrent Delay : Two or more delays happening at the same time where at least one is employer’s and one contractor’s; entitlement is complex and often needs separate forensic analysis (CONC).

• Acceleration/Owner-Directed Acceleration - Owner asks contractor to compress schedule; if owner-directed, costs may be compensable (ACC).

e) How to show delays in the MWP (recommended columns and notes)

• Baseline ES/EF : original planned.
• Current Forecast ES/EF : recalculated every update cycle (weekly/bi-weekly).
• Actual Start/Actual Finish : daily/weekly progress entries.
• Variance (days) - Current Forecast EF(J) − Baseline EF(J). (Shows total delay)

f) Delay Type : use legend codes (E-NC, E-C, NE, CONC).

i) Supporting Docs : RFI no., delivery note, weather log, employer instruction no., photos, site daily logs. Always attach proof for claims.

ii) Color / formatting convention (suggested):

• Red row = activity on the current critical path.
• Yellow cell = activity experiencing a delay.

Column for “Claim / EOT requested” with date and amount (if applicable).

g) Practical tips for your MWP + CPM on construction projects

• Baseline and Updates: Keep a clear baseline schedule (approved) and publish regular updates (weekly/fortnightly). Each update must include actual start/finish, and a recalculated CPM (forward/backward pass).

• Resource-aware CPM: CPM assumes unlimited resources; if your site is resource-constrained, overlay a resource-levelling run or show resource conflicts separately.

• Maintain Audit Trail: For every delay mark, attach contemporaneous evidence: delivery tickets, RFIs, site weather logs, photos, signatures. This is essential for EOT or claims.
  
  
• Identify Recovery Options Early: If a critical activity is delayed, evaluate crashing (add labour/equipment) or fast-tracking where technically safe - capture cost vs time trade-off.

• Watch for Hidden Critical Paths: Frequent logic checks - wrong links create wrong critical path. Keep activities at an appropriate level of detail (not too coarse, not too granular).

• Be explicit about calendars: Use the same work calendar (public holidays, weekends) when computing durations and ES/LS dates.

6.0 CONCLUSION

In construction, time is not just money, it’s control, credibility, and coordination. The Critical Path Method (CPM) remains the backbone of effective project scheduling because it identifies where time truly matters. Through a well-prepared CPM-based Master Work Program, project teams can visualize the entire construction process, anticipate bottlenecks, and make informed decisions when challenges arise.

Conversely, projects without a proper CPM analysis often fall prey to confusion, miscommunication, and costly delays. Without understanding which activities drive the completion date, both contractors and clients risk losing grip over schedule integrity, resource planning, and even contractual entitlements such as Extension of Time (EOT).

Ultimately, mastering the CPM is not just about software proficiency - it’s about discipline, foresight, and accountability. It empowers project stakeholders to act on facts rather than assumptions, ensuring that every day on site contributes toward successful, timely delivery.

A DAY IN MY LIFE - 7 OCTOBER, 2025

My son just started his new engineering job today. Although his workplace is only about 7 km from home, he has to take two buses and if he misses one, he’ll be late. So on his first day, he walked for an hour and a half. He’s resilient, something he definitely inherited from me, but honestly, I wish he didn’t have to go through that. E-hailing fares are so expensive these days. He deserves better, and I wish I could ease that burden for him. Watching him walk like that brings back memories of my own early days, trekking 10 km to the site using a shortcut until I got my first paycheck.

But...

There’s a big difference between how I used to get to work and how he does now. With all the trees being cut down, it’s become unbearably hot and he’s carrying his laptop too, which worries me even more. Just imagine how exhausted he must be after walking all that way, he still has to head out to the site and carry on with his work. I just hope the employer noticed that and do something about it. All three of us head out to work at different times, but as a father, I’ll always do my best to help him succeed.

He’s always been fine and independent - just like me. When my parents found out about my situation back then, they tried to help, but being the stubborn person I was, I didn’t want them to take care of me anymore, especially since I had just gotten married. I suppose my son feels the same way now.

It’s just that, with eight years of experience in M&E within the construction industry and God willing, soon to become a young Professional Engineer and eventually a PEPC I can’t help but feel a bit sorry for him, even though he’s never been the choosy type. I’m actually writing this on the sly, knowing I’ll probably have to delete it later if he finds out. 😅

Key Technical and Community Concerns over the Redevelopment of Wisma Damansara

Credit : freemalaysiatoday

Big names such as celebrity Celebrity Dato' Sheila Majid, former CIMB chairman Tan Sri Nazir Razak, former minister Khairy Jamaluddin, Capital A Bhd CEO Tan Sri Tony Fernandes and activist Ambiga Sreenevasan join residents in protesting redevelopment of Wisma Damansara 

Introduction and Disclaimer

This is an independent, non-expert third-party perspective on the proposed redevelopment of Wisma Damansara. The views below are based on my personal understanding and publicly available information. They are not intended to influence ongoing residents’ protests, nor the developer’s obligations to comply with all relevant laws and regulations.

1) PROPOSAL

The old Wisma Damansara, a 16-storey commercial building, is proposed to be redeveloped into two 60-storey towers comprising residential and commercial/retail components.

The project carries a proposed plot ratio of ~1:9.6, which many residents argue is excessive compared to the 1:6 figure reflected in the KL Local Plan 2040 for the area.

The developer (BRDB) has submitted the proposal as a flagship project. DBKL held a Rule-3 consultation, receiving hundreds of objections primarily on density and traffic. Both DBKL and the developer have stated the application is under review based on the KL Local Plan and redevelopment incentive rules.

2) KEY CONCERNS BY RESIDENTS (Beyond Traffic Congestion)

2.1 Plot Ratio and Density

The proposed density far exceeds planning guidelines, leading to concerns about overdevelopment. Some residents question whether redevelopment incentives (which allow higher plot ratios) are being applied appropriately, and whether sufficient oversight and accountability exist.

3) ZONING, LAND USE AND NEIGHBOURHOOD CHARACTER

The project departs significantly from the KL Local Plan 2040, raising fears of a precedent for further over-dense developments,

Damansara Heights and Bukit Damansara are historically low-density bungalow areas. High-rise towers are viewed as inconsistent with this character,

Concerns include loss of privacy, where tall buildings may overlook existing gardens and homes.

4) INFRASTRUCTURE STRAIN 

Beyond traffic, residents cite stress on water supply, sewage systems, utilities, and local roads.

Many argue infrastructure upgrades must come before approving higher-density projects, not after.

5) HEIGHT, SKYLINE AND VISUAL IMPACTS

Introducing 60-storey towers in a low-rise setting will alter the skyline and neighbourhood views,

Beyond aesthetics, technical issues such as shadowing, wind effects, and blocked views may arise.

6) GEOLOGICAL AND CONSTRUCTION RISKS 

Bukit Damansara’s rocky terrain may require heavy excavation and rock blasting, potentially affecting land stability,

Risks include vibration, noise, and possible damage to nearby structures.

While no direct reports specific to Wisma Damansara have surfaced, this remains a valid concern.

7) FACTS CHECK (PUBLIC RECORD)

Publicly available information on the redevelopment is limited.

What is visible: the developer’s proposal (high plot ratio, mixed-use towers), DBKL’s Rule-3 public consultation, and significant resident objections.

8) LIMITATIONS OF MY OPINION

At the time of writing, no full technical documentation has been publicly disclosed. It might be available though. Not limited to the following and the breakdown of explanation, the documentations are :

These requirements need to be addressed clearly in a Construction Management Plan and Contractual Requirements.

 10) Closing Note

 For a project of this scale, transparent disclosure of technical studies is essential to ensure that redevelopment proceeds responsibly, in line with planning law, and with due regard for community well-being.

Impressed by the Level of Security and Intelligence

I was truly impressed by the level of security and intelligence coordination during the arrival of DYTM Raja Muda of Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, at the Sultan Abdul Aziz Royal Gallery at about 8.52am today. The ceremonial royal procession, covering a 1.2-kilometre journey towards Istana Alam Shah, reflected precision, discipline, and seamless execution.

Points on Security and Intelligence Observed

• Timing and Precision: Arrival recorded at exactly 8.52am, reflecting strict adherence to protocol and well-coordinated planning,

• Route Security: The 1.2 km procession route was carefully secured, ensuring uninterrupted passage and safety,

• Crowd and Perimeter Control: Effective intelligence allowed smooth crowd management without incidents,

• Visible and Discreet Presence: Balance between visible security personnel and discreet protective intelligence ensured both reassurance and subtlety,

• Communication and Coordination: Seamless real-time communication between units demonstrated operational readiness,

• Contingency Preparedness: Strategic positioning suggested readiness for any emergency response.

Well done comrades - you're the unsung heroes

HOW DO YOU STOP BOT ACCOUNTS ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA

MO : They always operate on same patterns - generic profile picture (AI-generated, stolen, or blank), very new account, but already posting a lot, posts/replies that are repetitive, irrelevant, or copy-pasted, overuse of hashtags or links, strange usernames (random numbers/letters), unnatural engagement (commenting instantly across many threads).

What do you do : Report suspicious accounts (spam, fake profile, impersonation), Don't clicking strange links in replies/DMs, don’t engage - interaction boosts their visibility.

Take necessary action : stronger verification (phone/email/IP checks), AI detection of mass behavior (same comments across multiple accounts), rate limits on new accounts (e.g., how many posts/likes they can do daily). Bot “honeypots” is a fake trap accounts to detect automation tools. Better user transparency - labels for automated/AI-driven accounts.